Friction and Tribology of Polyester Fibres
topic
Polyester fibre friction characterised by: fibre–fibre friction coefficient (µff, 0.15–0.30 dry), fibre–metal friction (µfm, 0.1–0.2 with finish, 0.3–0.5 dry). Amontons' law fails at fibre scale: F ∝ Nⁿ (n < 1) due to viscoelastic contact mechanics (Hertz contact modified for fibre geometry). Static vs. kinetic friction ratio important for stick–slip in spinning. Surface texture (crimp, finish, cross-section) modifies friction.
Role
Fibre friction governs processability in spinning, weaving, and nonwoven formation, and influences fabric handle (surface slip perception). Tribological understanding of fibre surfaces is important for process engineering and functional finishing design.